Looking for study abroad Netherlands programs? You’re in the right place! Whether you’re hoping to learn about gender studies in Amsterdam, business in Maastricht, international studies in Leiden, or any number of potential Netherlands study abroad options, you may be about to have the experience of a lifetime! As you probably already know, the Netherlands are located in northwestern Europe and are famous for windmills, tulips, and canals. But there is much more to discover in this country…especially if you plan to earn potential college credits while abroad! Check out the FAQs below to start planning your adventure.
Why study abroad in the Netherlands?
There may be any number of reasons to choose study abroad Netherlands programs for your study abroad experience…from art, culture, and history to outdoor recreation and opportunities to make new friends. Home to artists like Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Vermeer, this country could be an art student’s dream! And for history majors, the capital city of Amsterdam offers a moving snapshot of World War II history…including the Anne Frank museum. Choosing to study abroad in Netherlands could also be a chance to immerse yourself in a new culture – wooden shoes and stroopwaffels, anyone? And you may also meet people from all over the world, since the Netherlands is a popular study-abroad destination for students from Germany, China, Belgium, Italy, and many other nations. In fact, over 90,000 students chose the Netherlands as a host country during the 2014 to 2015 school year!
What could a study abroad Netherlands experience be like?
Every student may have a different experience, depending on his or her personal interests and goals. For example, you could potentially choose to study in the bustling city of Amsterdam, or in lovely university towns like Maastricht or Leiden. You may also be able to choose the length of your study-abroad experience – from a couple of weeks or a semester to the entire academic year! Finally, keep in mind that many study abroad Netherlands programs may not be subject-specific, instead allowing students to potentially tailor the experience to their goals. For example, why not pursue architecture courses in the ultra-modern city of Rotterdam, or political science in The Hague, which is the seat of Dutch government? Your choices may depend on the career path you hope to pursue.
How can I prepare to study abroad in the Netherlands?
For one, it’s a good idea to look into visas, travel documents, and other requirements for studying abroad in the Netherlands. In general, if you wish to stay in the Netherlands for over 90 days, you will need to apply for a Provisional Residence permit. Find out what documents are required of you well in advance of your departure date. It’s also a good idea to brush up on Dutch culture, etiquette, and even politics so you’ll be prepared to meet new people and engage with the community. Finally, learning a few phrases in the official language, Dutch, might be useful. Though many people in the Netherlands may speak some English, it’s often respectful (and also fun!) to study a new language.
What are potential financing options for study abroad Netherlands programs?
Wondering how to potentially finance your Netherlands study abroad experience? You may qualify for a few options, depending on your eligibility. For example, if you currently receive financial aid, you may be able to use those funds for studying abroad. The Higher Education Act (HEA) of 1992 states that students may be eligible for financial aid if enrolled in a study abroad program approved by their home college or university. Alternatively, look into possible grants, scholarships, and other opportunities you may be eligible for. Your school’s financial aid office may be a good resource for planning your study abroad adventure!
Studying abroad in the Netherlands could be an exciting opportunity to earn potential college credits while experiencing a new culture. Check out some programs that may be perfect for you!